Implant Restoration in the Esthetic Zone Using the Socket-Shield Technique: A Clinical Evaluation

Abstract

The socket-shield technique in dental implant surgery has shown potential for preserving the periodontal ligament and preventing bone loss and soft tissue recession. This study evaluated the clinical outcomes of implant restoration in the esthetic zone using the socket-shield technique at the Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital from 2022 to 2023. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 31 maxillary anterior teeth with esthetic roots in 22 patients aged 18 and above. The main reasons for implant surgery were dental trauma (51.6%) and toothache (48.4%). There were no reported surgical or postoperative complications. Implant survival and retention rates reached 100% success in 2, 3, and 6 months after the surgery. The soft tissue condition assessed using the pink esthetic score (PES) index was excellent (12-14 points). Aesthetic evaluation using the Implant Crown Aesthetic Index (ICAI) showed 70.9% "Beautiful" and 29.1% "Satisfactory" ratings. Functionally, all restorations exhibited excellent chewing ability, occlusion, contact, and opposing dentition. However, minor deficiencies were 3.2% slight discoloration, 9.7% less harmonious contour, and 3.2% moderate fit of crowns to gingiva. A more extended follow-up is required to comprehensively evaluate socket-shield implant placement outcomes in the maxillary anterior region.